Emperor Concerto by Rudolf Buchbinder

Last night I watched a wonderful performance of Beethoven’s 5th piano concerto, the Emperor Concerto, by the celebrated Austrian pianist Rudolf Buchbinder.

I know this piece well but cannot recall if I have seen this performed live. I must have but somehow watching a live performance just doesn’t ring a bell. But what a lovely performance last night.

The pianist is 78 and he walked slowly onto the stage and to the piano but when he sat down to play, it was a brilliant performance. The playing was well paced and there was a beautiful coordination between the piano and the SSO and just so entertaining. He played flawlessly and he had a great command of the piano. I thoroughly enjoyed myself and the encore he played after a few standing ovations.

Memorable performance and I am so glad I watched this.